A chemotherapy that acts primarily on the DNA in the nucleus of a cell. It damages DNA, which ultimately kills the cell. DNA is the material within the nucleus of a cell that carries genetic codes for building proteins. The scientific name for DNA is deoxyribonucleic acid.
A deficiency of red blood cells or of hemoglobin in the blood, resulting in pallor and weariness.
The removal of cells or tissues, which are then examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. Three different types of biopsy are incisional or core biopsy (when only a sample of tissue is removed), excisional biopsy (when the whole lymph node is removed), and needle biopsy or needle aspiration (when a needle is inserted to remove tissue or fluid for microscopic examination).
A type of therapy that stimulates the patient’s immune system to fight infection and destroy tumor cells. Also called immunotherapy.
The soft sponge-like material inside some bones. Blood cells are formed in the bone marrow.
Chemical treatment that kills cancer cells.
Trials of a new drug for safety and effectiveness in human beings.
A round of treatment.
An increase in indolent B-cell NHL cells and a worsening of symptoms.
Loss of strength and energy.
Of or relating to blood.
Giving a liquid solution to a patient by injecting it directly into a vein (usually in the arm).
Muscle-building exercises involving muscle contractions without movements of joints (such as pushing against a wall).
An enzyme with five forms found in the heart, liver, brain, kidney, skeletal muscle, and bone. In lymphoma, an increase in LDH levels in the blood sometimes correlates with the presence and/or the increase of tumor cells.
A low number of leukocytes (also called white blood cells).
A network of tissues and organs (including lymph vessels, lymph nodes, tonsils, and the spleen) that make and store cells to fight infection and disease.
A mass of lymphatic tissue that filters lymph (lymphatic fluid) and stores lymphocytes. Also called a lymph gland.
Lymphocytes are white blood cells that act as part of the body’s immune system. The immune system protects the body from infection. Most lymphocytes are found in the lymph nodes, the lymph channels, and the spleen. Some enter the blood.
Cancer of cells of the lymphatic system.
A low number of lymphocytes in the blood.
An abnormally low level of neutrophils in the blood.
A type of white blood cell that helps to destroy bacteria.
Small cells that help stop bleeding at the site of an injury.
Radiation therapy (also called radiotherapy) uses high-energy radiation from x-rays and other sources to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
Making up half the volume of the blood, they are filled with hemoglobin, the protein that takes in oxygen from the lungs. Red blood cells circulate around the body to deliver the oxygen to other cells.
A procedure whereby spinal fluid is removed from the spinal canal for the purpose of diagnostic testing. Also known as a lumbar puncture or “LP.”
A decrease in the number of platelets in the blood.
Cells that fight infection in the body (also called leukocytes).